'12 Intro: Jovon Johnson (Central Catholic)

Central Catholic (Morgan City, La.) went 11-2 last year behind the strength of a talented crop of underclassmen. Jovon Johnson, a versatile junior, is one of the top prospects for the Eagles.

"I play linebacker and safety on defense and running back on offense," said Jovon Johnson (5-10, 190, 4.63). "I had 64 tackles with 10 tackles for loss and five sacks last year. I expect to play safety in college - either free or strong.

"My strength is coming off the blitz, and I'm good at dropping back into coverage. In zone coverage, I'm a ball hawk and you'll find me wherever the ball is at...on offense, we run the pistol with seven different running backs. I had 19 carries for 205 yards and a touchdown."

Johnson is garnering interest from a handful of colleges.

"San Diego State is interested," he said. "Holy Cross (Mass.) seems to be on the verge of offering, but they want to see more tape. Temple and Southeastern Louisiana are showing interest.

"I'm going to Southeastern's Junior Day, and I'm looking forward to seeing everything there. I hope to capture the eyes of their coaches and get that first offer."

What's the outlook for CCMC next year in football?

"We've been having a lot of talent," he began. "We intend on bringing a state title to Morgan City. Last season, we had the youngest offensive line ever since I've been here and it was the first time we've been to the quarterfinals in awhile.

"I think some of the younger players may have gotten satisfied too easily and next season, we need to come together and move forward."

Johnson recently helped lead CCMC's basketball squad to a berth in the Class A quarterfinals, and he's attending the upcoming Jackson (Ms.) National Underclassmen Combine.